Internal Control Officer at Council for Geoscience (CGS)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Developing and maintaining internal control frameworks

• Ensuring financial processes are operating securely and complying with regulations. 
• Reducing risks related to fraud and inefficiencies.

Conducting financial risk assessments 

• Identifying financial vulnerabilities and implementing mitigation strategies. 
• Strengthening financial stability and regulatory adherence.
• Maintaining the Finance Risk register.

Ensuring compliance with financial regulations  

• Maintaining adherence to PFMA regulations and GRAP standards. 
• Preventing legal and financial penalties.

Monitoring financial transactions to ensure compliance

• Detecting anomalies and preventing fraudulent activities.
• Enhancing operational efficiency and financial security.

Collaborating with finance teams

• Improving reporting accuracy and strengthening control frameworks. 
• Strengthening cross-functional financial governance.

Supporting internal and external audit functions

• Providing necessary documentation to auditors and ensuring smooth audit processes. 
• Ensuring regulatory compliance and financial integrity.
• Verifying financial accuracy and ensuring adherence to policies. 
• Improving transparency and accountability in financial reporting.

KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Analytical Thinking.
• Attention to Detail.
• Problem-Solving Skills.
• Communication & Collaboration.
• Leadership & Influence.
• Adaptability & Resilience.

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Grade 12; and
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or a related field.
• Professional membership CA(SA), ACCA, CIMA, CPA or CIA.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Internal Control or similar environment.
• Proven experience in Finance, internal auditing, risk management, or compliance role.
• Strong knowledge of PFMA, GRAP and internal control frameworks.
• Understanding of financial reporting standards and regulatory requirements.
• Understanding compliance requirements related to grants funding.
• Understanding financial controls for research projects.
• Identifying financial risks associated with finance, procurement, and operational spend.
• Understanding financial aspects of research projects, including cost allocation and expenditure tracking.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership skills.